(File photo)
MANILA – The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has arrested 316 most wanted persons (MWPs) in intensified anti-criminality operations from April 24 to May 21.
This marks the 28-day period since the assumption of Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. as the 29th PNP chief.
In a statement on Tuesday, CIDG chief Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr. said a total of 1,028 manhunt operations against wanted persons and out of these numbers, the CIDG arrested one national-level MWP, 122 regional-level MWPs, 105 provincial-level MWPs, and 88 city and municipal MWPs.
In the campaign against loose firearms, a total of 183 operations were conducted that resulted in the arrest of 132 and the death of two persons, the seizure of 155 firearms, 18 explosives, and 2,484 ammunition, and the filing of 107 cases.
In the campaign against smuggling, manufacturing, distribution and trading of counterfeit products and items, the group conducted 29 operations that resulted in the arrest of 47 persons, the confiscation or seizure of counterfeit items worth PPHP9.7 million, and the filing of 20 cases in court.
On the other hand, the CIDG’s campaign against unlawful destruction of natural resources resulted in a total of 28 operations, with 35 persons arrested, the confiscation or recovery of illegally cut lumber and other items worth PHP1.2 million and the filing of 19 court cases.
In the campaign against illegal gambling and game fixing, the CIDG conducted 100 operations that resulted in the arrest of 181 people, the confiscation or seizure of cash bets amounting to PHP163,572 and the filing of 65 court cases.
In the campaign against the illegal selling of petroleum products, the CIDG conducted 22 operations resulting in the arrest of 50 individuals, the seizure of PHP4.3 million worth of petroleum products and the filing of 22 complaints in courts.
“The support of our President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and SILG (Secretary of the Interior and Local Government) Benhur Abalos Jr. resulted in an intensified law enforcement operations and a high satisfaction rating from our compatriots,” Caramat said.
He added that its intensified and enhanced anti-criminality flagship projects which are implemented nationwide aided the CIDG to maintain its vigilance and succeed against criminality and violence.
"Through the able leadership of our chief PNP, the CIDG was able to steer great heights these past weeks. The accomplishments of the CIDG in this period attest to his determination to implement programs and bring the organization closer to the people,” he added.
Meanwhile, Caramat also said the detectives of the CIDG Intelligence Division together with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducted an entrapment operation against three persons for alleged estafa.
Reports said the suspects were recruiting victims or applicants to be included in the final list for recruitment to the PCG in exchange for PHP15,000 each.
Caramat said the operation was conducted on Monday night along Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, where arrested suspect Nelson Fortuna Abordo was caught red-handed receiving the entrapment money while his two companions identified as Anne Jubac and John Herald Padillo, were able to elude arrest after sensing that they were being entrapped.
Seized from the possession and control of Abordo were one .45-caliber pistol loaded with seven rounds of ammunition, marked money and expired LTOPF ID.
The arrested suspect was brought to the CIDG headquarters along with the pieces of evidence for documentation and proper disposition.
The suspect will be charged with violation of Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code and Republic Act 10591 (illegal possession of firearms). (PNA)
